Natural Gas 101
HOW TO TELL IF THERE MIGHT BE A GAS LEAK?
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK I SMELL NATURAL GAS?
DO
DO leave the area, leaving doors and windows open to ventilate if possible.
DO move to a safe location and call 911 and then call the Washington Gas Emergency Leak Line at 703-750-1400 (or 1-800-752-7520).
DON’T
DON’T smoke, or light a match, candle or other flame.
DON’T turn electrical appliances or lights on or off, operate motorized equipment or vehicles, or use any device that could cause a spark or source of ignition, including telephones and cell phones.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN SOMEONE REPORTS A SMELL OF GAS?
When the smell of natural gas is reported, Washington Gas dispatches trained and qualified technicians 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to investigate gas odors complaints and will not leave the site until the area is deemed safe.
WHAT ARE IMPORTANT GAS APPLIANCE SAFETY TIPS?
Most natural gas emergencies happen because of appliances that become unsafe. Follow the tips below to keep your appliances safe and make sure to have a licensed contractor inspect your appliances every year using our Appliance Safety Checklist. For more appliance safety tips, please visit NVAR.com/appliance-tips.
Never use your oven or range-top burner to heat your home, even during winter
Always have a professional re-light your natural gas appliances
Use a licensed contractor to install, repair or replace natural gas appliances
Turn off range-top burners when you’re not using them
Never cover the holes in the bottom of your oven with foil or other materials
Make sure your natural gas dryer is venting correctly and free of lint and dust
Always light a gas grill outdoors and with the top open
Inspect and replace air filters monthly
